Copyright question.

[Shishio]

Let's say someone was working on a comic strip, and wanted one of their characters to be seen with/reading a book in nearly every appearance they make in said strip. Would this fall under fair use, or would the author's permission be needed?

[Anjin-san]

Let's say someone was working on a comic strip, and wanted one of their characters to be seen with/reading a book in nearly every appearance they make in said strip. Would this fall under fair use, or would the author's permission be needed?

Wow. Y'know, as a photographer and graphic designer, its my job to know something of copyright law in regards to the visual arts. Plus, my father was a lawyer, so I'd always get legal advice straight from the horse's mouth. Normally, I'd jump right in and give you a layman's discourse on copyright.

However, what you have done is actually ask for legal advice and only a lawyer can provide that. (A layman, even if he knows the law well, can be sued for practicing law without a license.)

Therefore, I can not advise you on what you should or should not do in any of your endeavors. I can, however, make a declarative statement:

Titles can not be copyrighted.

Disclaimer: I am not an attorney at law and the above should not be construed as any kind of legal advice; Should you require legal counsel, please consult a licensed attorney.

[Shishio]

*Is downcast.*

I feel stupid for asking, now. Oh well.

The titles were all I was curious about. If I were to ever do such a thing, I would only feature blank books with titles on them, just as a way of offering tribute to artists whose work I enjoy.